Frequently Asked Questions about Angola

For entry into Angola, citizens of many countries require a visa. Today, foreign nationals from some states and territories, including Germany and other EU member states, are allowed to enter visa-free for tourism and leisure purposes for up to 30 days. If you are planning a business trip, study, or work stay in Angola, you will need to apply for the appropriate type of visa.

Yes, you can apply for an electronic tourist visa (e-visa) for Angola. This visa is a multiple-entry visa issued for tourism, recreation, and participation in sports and cultural events for 60 days, with a stay of 30 days and the possibility of a one-month extension.

If minors are traveling alone to Angola, they require a written consent from both parents with official confirmation. If the child is only accompanied by one legal guardian, a letter from the other parent is required. Single parents must prove that there are no other legal guardians.

The list of documents for a visa for Angola depends on your nationality and the visa category. The standard list includes a passport, a completed application form, photos, a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation from a private individual, a return ticket, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and financial documents. The Angolan consulate may request additional documents at its discretion.

Yes, a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travel to Angola. Travelers must possess an international vaccination certificate, which will be checked upon entry. Without this certificate, entry into the country may be prohibited, and the certificate must also be presented when applying for a visa.

Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria are also recommended but not required. Consult a doctor before traveling to assess all potential health risks and clarify vaccination and prophylaxis recommendations.

Health insurance is not mandatory for entry into Angola. However, it is highly recommended to take out travel health insurance in advance. It may be required for some visa categories. The insurance should cover medical costs and any emergencies, including repatriation.

The medical system in Angola is limited, especially in remote areas. Insurance with comprehensive coverage will protect you from significant costs in case of illness or injury.

The best time to travel to Angola is during the dry season, which lasts from May to October. During this time, the weather is more pleasant for travel, especially for safaris and visits to national parks like Kisama and Iona. Temperatures remain moderate, and there is much less rain, making it easier to get around and enjoy the natural scenery.

Traveling to Angola can be safe if you exercise caution and follow basic behavioral rules. In large cities like Luanda, it is advisable to be vigilant and avoid visiting remote areas unaccompanied. It is particularly important not to display valuables in public and not to walk around unfamiliar areas at night. Stick to tourist areas and sightseeing routes.

In some regions of the country, tourists need a special permit to visit national parks and protected areas. It is advisable to respect local laws and traditions, including rules for photography and filming, as filming military facilities and government buildings may be prohibited. Compliance with these rules helps to avoid misunderstandings.

Here are some popular attractions in Angola:

• Kalandula Falls - spectacular waterfalls, some of the largest in Africa.
• Kisama National Park - a reserve with diverse flora and fauna, suitable for safaris.
• San Miguel Fortress - a historic building in Luanda, with a museum on colonial history.
• Mussulo Peninsula - picturesque beaches and resorts for seaside vacations.
• Serra da Leba Mountain - breathtaking panoramic views and spectacular mountain landscapes.
• Tundavala Caves - unique geological formations with beautiful views of the valley.
• Iona National Park - the country's oldest park with desert landscapes and rare animals.
• Benfica Market - a place to buy local souvenirs, handicrafts, and artworks.

The following documents are usually required for traveling with children to Angola:

• Passport - the child must have a separate passport valid for the entire duration of the stay.
• Visa - children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults.
• Birth certificate - to prove the relationship with the accompanying adult, especially important if parents and child have different surnames.
• Notarized consent - if the child is traveling with one parent or a third party, notarized consent from the other parent is required.
• Health insurance - taking out health insurance for the entire duration of the stay in Angola is mandatory.
• Vaccination certificate - children must also be vaccinated against yellow fever, which is mandatory for entry into the country.

The official currency of Angola is the Angolan Kwanza (AOA). Cash is widely used, especially outside of major cities. It is therefore recommended to bring enough cash for purchases in remote areas. In the capital Luanda and other major cities, it is possible to pay with Visa and Mastercard bank cards, especially in hotels, restaurants, and large shopping centers. However, access to ATMs may be limited and sometimes high fees are charged, so it is better to exchange some money into Quanzas in advance.

The official language in Angola is Portuguese, which is widely used in daily life, especially in business and education. In addition to Portuguese, several local languages are spoken in the country, especially Umbundu, Kimbundu, and Kongo. In major cities like Luanda, English is also spoken, especially in tourist areas and hotels.

There are several important aspects to consider when visiting indigenous tribes in Angola:

• Respect for the culture - learn about the traditions and customs of the tribes to avoid offending their sensitivities. Be aware of local customs and behavioral rules.
• Permission to visit - make sure to obtain permission from local authorities or community leaders before visiting the tribe to avoid misunderstandings.
• Photography - always ask people for permission before taking photos. Some tribes may refuse to be photographed.
• Clothing - dress modestly and according to local traditions to show respect for the culture.
• Gifts and souvenirs - if you want to give something to the locals, choose something useful and accepted in their culture, such as food or school supplies.
• Language and communication - if you do not speak Portuguese or the local language, try to communicate through gestures or hire a local guide to facilitate communication.
• Environmental aspects - try not to leave any litter and keep the environment clean to minimize the impact on the local ecosystem.

Here are some of the best beaches for a vacation in Angola:

• Mussulo Beach - This beach on the peninsula of the same name is famous for its white sand and clear water. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and water sports activities.
• Kwanzaa Beach - This beach popular among locals offers great options for a family vacation. Along the coast, there are cafes and small shops.
• Santa Maria Beach - Located on the outskirts of Luanda, Santa Maria Beach is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere. An ideal spot for picnics and family outings.
• Landana Beach - situated near the town of Ngalu, this beach offers a tranquil environment and beautiful landscapes. Ideal for those seeking a quiet holiday and privacy.
• Praia da Zen Beach - This beach is a hotspot for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. Various water competitions and festivals are often held here.
• Shínga Beach - this lesser-known beach to tourists offers excellent conditions for a secluded holiday and enjoying nature.

Each of these beaches offers unique vacation opportunities, so you can choose a place that suits your preferences.

In Angola, you can get around by buses, taxis, and rental cars. Public transportation is often overcrowded, so taxis are the more convenient alternative. There are also motorboats for coastal trips and domestic flights for long distances. When planning your trip, consider road conditions and safety in advance.

Angolan cuisine is a combination of African and Portuguese culinary traditions. It is based on cassava, corn, and fish dishes. Try popular dishes like Kalulu, a stew with fish and shrimp, or Muamba de Galinha, chicken in palm oil with okra and spices. Palm wine and Cussangua, a traditional drink made from cornmeal, are popular beverages.

Angola offers unique souvenirs such as wooden and ivory products, colorful fabrics, ceramics, handmade jewelry, and musical instruments like drums. Figures and masks reflecting traditional African art are as popular as local coffee and palm oil.

In large stores and supermarkets in Angola, you can generally buy food safely. However, street food in unknown places should be avoided to reduce the risk of food infections. For drinking, it is recommended to use only bottled or boiled water and avoid tap water. It is also advisable to thoroughly wash and peel fruits and vegetables before consumption, especially when bought in markets.

Light and comfortable clothing made of natural fabrics is suitable for a vacation in Angola, as the climate is warm and humid. Bring long-sleeved clothing and trousers to protect yourself from the sun and insects, especially if you plan to visit nature reserves. In major cities, casual but neat clothing is recommended, and for beach vacations, a swimsuit and a hat are advisable.

Internet and mobile phone services are developing in Angola, but their quality and coverage may vary from region to region. 3G and 4G internet is available in major cities like Luanda, and hotels and restaurants usually offer Wi-Fi. The main mobile operators are Unitel and Movicel, which offer prepaid SIM cards for tourists. Internet access and connectivity may be limited in remote areas, so it is advisable to plan ahead for mobile phone access.